In the rapidly evolving world of college sports, NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals have drastically changed the way athletes approach. No longer are student-athletes confined to just the field; they now can capitalize on their brands in ways we’ve never seen before. Clemson University, the home of its high-powered football program, has seen some of its brightest stars secure substantial NIL deals.
Let’s dive into the top 10 Tigers making waves
1. Cade Klubnik, QB | $3.3 Million
Cade Klubnik is a name Clemson fans will be familiar with for years to come, and it’s not just because of his top-notch play on the field. At an NIL worth $3.3 million, Klubnik has quickly become one of the most promotable college sports stars in the nation.
The gifted quarterback had flashes of brilliance in the 2024 season, throwing for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns and rushing for another 463 yards and seven touchdowns. He also finished as a semifinalist for the Maxwell Award and was a top 10 candidate for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award.
His NIL portfolio is equally as strong, with sponsors ranging from activewear brand Rhoback to car dealership Fred Caldwell Chevrolet and even EA Sports for their college football video game. With his name value and celebrity, Klubnik is proving that he’s more than a rising star—he’s the next big entrepreneur.
2. Peter Woods, DT | $1.4 Million
Clemson’s defense has long been one of the team’s greatest assets, and Peter Woods is among their shiniest stars. At the ripe age of just 20 years young, the towering defensive tackle is already an NIL titan, with a valuation of $1.4 million.
Woods’ athleticism and work ethic on the field have made him noticed by scouts and brands alike. He has also partnered with TigerImpact, a Clemson-based NIL collective. That further solidifies him as an elite player and a giving-back type of individual.
Woods’ revolutionary brand of play in the trenches has made him a household name in the world of football. And it is only a question of time until he’s considered a top pick in the NFL Draft. Off the field, his NIL deals suggest that his leadership and influence in the Clemson community are growing.
3. T.J. Parker, EDGE | $1.1 Million
T.J. Parker’s ability to rush the quarterback with speed and quickness has made him a highly valued asset for Clemson’s defense.
With an NIL worth $1.1 million, the edge rusher is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after college stars in the NIL space. Parker’s natural ability to put pressure on quarterbacks has paid dividends in the way of a high marketability quotient. Especially with companies vying to be linked with the rising star. As he keeps building on his defensive prowess, Parker’s NIL value is sure to increase even more.
4. Blake Miller, OT | $887,000
Blake Miller may not be as much in the spotlight as some of his flashier teammates, but the value that the offensive tackle brings to Clemson’s success cannot be overstated.
Valued at $887,000 in NIL, Miller has become a headline name with his leadership on the front line. It ensures the Tigers’ quarterbacks stay on their feet and running backs gain room to burst through. Miller’s work on the offense is often overlooked by the average fan, but NFL scouts and businesses recognize the value he is adding to the game. His consistent play and good off-field character make him the best endorsement prospect.
5. Avieon Terrell, CB | $781,000
Cornerback Avieon Terrell has quickly established himself as one of the ACC’s top shutdown corners. With an NIL worth $781,000, Terrell’s ability to play lockdown corner has led to high-paying sponsorship deals. Especially with companies looking to capitalize on his brand and marketability. With speed, agility, and football IQ, Terrell is a future prospect that everybody needs to see, and with his NIL deals continuing to go up, Terrell’s future continues to grow.
6. Antonio Williams, WR | $707,000
Wide receiver Antonio Williams has been a focal point of Clemson’s passing game, and with an NIL worth $707,000, he’s also making waves in the business community.
Williams’ playmaking on big plays and ability to stretch the field have made him a big-time asset for the Tigers’ offense. His athleticism, speed, and playmaking ability have also drawn the attention of NFL scouts. He is also a national brand seeking to capitalize on his growing fame. As his professional career takes off, expect Williams’ NIL deals to balloon along with his on-the-field success.
7. Will Heldt, EDGE | $667,000
Defensive end Will Heldt brings Clemson’s defense a well-rounded array of skills, and his NIL value of $667,000 reflects his increasing value. Heldt has impressed coaches and observers with his tireless work ethic to sack the quarterback. With his career advancing, Heldt is positioning himself for even greater NIL opportunities down the road.
8. Bryant Wesco, WR | $656,000
Freshman wide receiver Bryant Wesco has already become a significant contributor for Clemson, and his NIL value of $656,000 speaks to his upside. With his incredible athleticism and route-running ability, Wesco has the potential to be among the greatest wide receivers in college football. His early production and upside potential make him a compelling choice for brands looking to invest in the next college football superstar.
9. Sammy Brown, LB | $510,000
Linebacker Sammy Brown’s combination of athleticism and leadership makes him one of the top recruits in the nation. At an NIL valuation of $510,000, Brown is positioning himself to be a force on the field and in the boardroom. As he continues to develop at Clemson, expect his NIL value to increase along with his play on the field.
10. TJ Moore, WR | $474,000
Rounding out the list is wide receiver TJ Moore, whose $474,000 NIL worth shows that he has the ability to be a playmaker within the Clemson offense. Moore’s ability to make space and produce splash plays has made him a valuable commodity for the Tigers, and his fame will keep pushing his NIL deals.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Texas Longhorns With the Highest NIL Valuations
As the NIL age continues to advance, Clemson University’s football program is among the best at capitalizing on those opportunities.
Clemson’s NIL success story is only just beginning, and with these high-paid athletes showing no signs of slowing down, the Tigers will continue to be at the forefront of college athletics in both on-field performance and business ventures for years to come.
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